Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has emphasized the importance of establishing a correct understanding and cooperation between the United States (US) and China, saying that it is "no longer an option but an imperative" for the world.

(Photo : BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images)
TOPSHOT - US President Joe Biden greets Chinese President Xi Jinping before a meeting during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders' week in Woodside, California on November 15, 2023.

US-China Cooperation

According to Reuters, Wang made these remarks during a keynote speech commemorating the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the US and China on Friday. He highlighted that cooperation is the "most correct choice" for both nations "to get along."

"It can be said that China-US cooperation is no longer an option for the two countries and even for the world, but an imperative that must be seriously addressed," he noted.

Wang also acknowledged the existing tensions in China-US relations over a range of issues, including national security, trade restrictions, global conflicts, climate change, and Taiwan. 

He stressed the significance of addressing these issues through cooperation and respect. Wang said that China is willing to commit itself to "building a stable, healthy, and sustainable China-US relationship" based on mutual respect. 

He hoped the US would adopt a more flexible mindset and respect China's choices, especially in upholding its national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The diplomatic strain between the two countries escalated last year, with accusations exchanged over high-altitude balloons in their respective air spaces. Military drills by both countries were recently held in the South China Sea as disagreements intensified in the region over disputed territory.

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Rise of China

The Chinese Foreign Minister further noted that China's development and revitalization has a "strong endogenous momentum," which meant that Beijing will assume greater responsibility for global peace and development.

However, he said China's rise should not be perceived as a threat as they "have no intention of replacing anyone, overriding anyone, and have no intention of seeking hegemony."

The US and its allies have raised concerns about the increasing alignment between China and Russia. But Wang noted that while US and China viewed things differently, this should not lead to confrontation. He said both nations must insist on peaceful coexistence and effectively manage their differences. 

US Deputy Chief of Mission for the Embassy of the US in Beijing David Meale, who also attended the event, agreed with Wang, saying his colleagues in the US Embassy were working with their counterparts to continue to manage their bilateral relationship.

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